(WTAJ) -- After years of discussing the implementation of the "Real I.D.," Homeland Security has not only announced a date but is also urging travelers to prepare ahead of time.
While drivers across the Commonwealth use their driver's license as a form of identification at a voting location, post office, or even to drive, that laminated card will soon only be good for those things. Starting May 7, residents of the United States will need what is called a "Real I.D." to board any flights, even ones that are just domestic.
Real I.D. vs. Standard I.D. or driver's license
In 2005 Congress passed the REAL ID Act, which enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that "the Federal Government set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses." The act established minimum security standards for state-issued licenses and I.D. cards as well as prohibited certain agencies from accepting cards that don't meet the standard.
In Pennsylvania, a Real I.D. is marked by a yellow star in the upper right-hand corner of a driver's license or I.D. card. Standard-Issue licenses also read "Not for real I.D. purposes" in the upper right-hand corner where the star would go. To get the card, there is a one-time fee of $30 and a renewal fee every four years or whenever there is an expiration.
The only real difference between a driver's license and a Real I.D., at least in the Commonwealth, is the star's existence or lack thereof. However, if residents don't wish to purchase a Real I.D., other forms of identification will be accepted when boarding a domestic flight.
The following are acceptable forms of identification at the TSA Checkpoint:
- U.S. passport or card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
For a full list of acceptable forms of identification, visit TSA's website.
How to get a Real I.D. in Pennsylvania
Residents can obtain a Real I.D. one of three ways, either by applying online, visiting any PennDOT Driver License Center or visiting a Real I.D. Center. When applying, you will need to present the original or certified copies of the following documents, per federal regulations.
- Proof of identity
- Examples: Original or certified copy of a birth certificate with a raised/embossed seal (not a sticker) or valid U.S. Passport. It is noted that hospital or commemorative certificates are not acceptable.
- Proof of Social Security Number - proof must display the current legal name and full nine digits of the SSN
- Examples:
- Social Security Card
- W-2 form
- SSA-1099 form
- Non-SSA 1009 form
- Pay stub
- Examples:
- Proof of all legal name changes
- Examples: Certified marriage certificate or court order issued by your county's family court. It is noted that you must show a complete name change history that links your birth certificate name to your current name. If you have a valid U.S. Passport Card with your legal name, you may use that as your name change document.
- Two proofs of physical Pennsylvania address
- Examples: Current, unexpired PA license or ID, PA vehicle registration, auto insurance card or utility bill with the same name and address
If you received your first Pennsylvania learner's permit, driver's license or photo ID after Sept. 1, 2003, you are eligible to apply for Real I.D. pre-verification online. For more information on the Real I.D. process in Pennsylvania, visit the Commonwealth's Government website.